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Ennis calls for online gambling review

Sinn Féin MLA Sinead Ennis is calling for a full
review of the online gambling industry to prevent companies from
targeting vulnerable people.

The South Down MLA was speaking after a
Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced new online gaming
rules following its investigation which found that some platforms were
exploiting gamblers through opaque terms and conditions.

“While these moves are welcome there is a need for tighter regulation of the online gambling industry,” Sinead Ennis said.

“There is no doubt that some gambling firms are
deliberately targeting our poorest and most vulnerable communities and
we also know that when people try to opt out of online gambling,
companies don’t always block their accounts as they should.

“That is why we need a full review of the industry practices and an awareness programme put in place.

“My message to gambling
firms today is clear: stop targeting vulnerable young people. Start
acting properly. And meet your obligation to help those whose lives have
been blighted by addiction.

“I would also urge anyone who feels they have a problem or could develop a problem to seek help.”